Metal Shop Buildings

In order to build a successful metal shop building, it is essential to plan for all aspects of its present and future use. This includes taking into account how the workspace will be used, what products and services it will offer, and how it will accommodate future growth. The last thing you want is to work in cramped conditions, thinking, "I only wish I'd..."

Good planning now can save a lot of grief in the future. First, take a complete inventory of what you intend to store and work on, including vehicles, parts, supplies, machinery, and any additional storage. Machinery and vehicles will ideally require a 4’ space all around to be safely and comfortably worked on.

Go as big as you can afford and try to anticipate future requirements. When was the last time you heard someone say, “that shop of mine is way too big”?

What Size Metal Shop Should I Build?

This will depend greatly on your intended usage.

Step 1: Take a detailed inventory of what will be stored in the metal workshop building now and down the road.

Step 2: Plan your layout with graph paper (using a scale of one square = 5 feet) and place scaled cutouts of your main pieces of machinery and equipment to get an idea of what will suit your particular setup.

Step 3: Calculate the space requirements from Step 2 and then add 20%.

Consider standard sizes: The most popular steel shop buildings (by far) are the 40x60 shop and the 30x40. For hobby shops, wood shops, or auto shops (for maintaining one or two vehicles), a 30x50 shop will generally provide adequate floor space.

Metal shop kits are available in sizes from 30'x40' up to 100’x100’. Standard widths increase in 10' increments, with unlimited lengths.

Other size considerations include:

• How much space will be required for parts and supplies storage?
• How many bays (either 20’ or 25’ wide) will be required?
• What access height do you need for vehicles and machinery?
• How many 4’ wide workbenches will you need?
• Will you require a half bathroom? If so, allow approx. 25 sq ft.
• Will you require an office area? If so, allow approx. 80-120 sq ft.
• Will you require space for a compressor, dedicated welding area, parts washer, spray booth, breakroom, or waiting room?
• Will a dust collection system be used in the metal workshop?
• Will you add a mezzanine loft for additional storage? If so, your eave height will need to be 16’, 18’, or 20’.
• Do you need a shop with living quarters? If so, see our shop houses section for suggested layouts.
• For those constructing a ‘ManCave,’ allow space for a couch, pool table, TV, bar, fridge, etc.

Popular Shop Sizes

• Typical sizes for small to medium-sized commercial auto shops and auto body shops include a 30x50 or a 40x60 (for servicing/maintaining 2-4 vehicles). Vehicles to be worked on will require approximately 4’ all around, so allow 330 sq ft for cars and 420 sq ft for trucks.
• Most woodworking shops are approximately 30x40 in size, partitioned into a primary work/project area, a finishing space, a utility room, and a lumber storage area.
• Farm shops for maintaining agricultural machinery are typically either 60x60 or 50x100; this will depend on the size and type of machinery to be maintained.

TIP: Go with what you can afford now. You can always extend your metal shop building by adding additional 20’ or 25’ bays in the future. If this is a possibility, be sure to request 'expandable end walls' when placing your order.

Visualize your floor plan with our floor plan designer, or view our sample shop floor plans.

What Height Do You Need?

Shop height is measured at the eave, and door openings require a 2’ clearance between the top of the door and the eave. Most auto shops will require a minimum door height of 12’ to accommodate car lifts, giving a recommended eave height of 14’, and for oversized vehicles, choose an eave height of 16’. A minimum eave height of 18’ or 20’ is recommended for farm shops. For structures with a mezzanine second level, choose an eave height of 20’ or 22’.

How Many Framed Openings?

Personnel doors and overhead doors each have their own framed openings. You will need to decide how many framed openings you need and their size. Each framed opening will increase your workshop's final cost due to the additional steel required.

Do I Need a Building Permit?

Some rural and farm properties are exempt, but most new shop builds will require a building permit. Once you've chosen a site and size for your workshop building, contact your local building department to start the process and verify if a permit is required. The more details you can provide about the build, the easier and faster the process will be.

For further details, see our page on building permits and codes.

Our suppliers ensure that your structure is engineered to meet or exceed local codes for wind, snow, and seismic conditions throughout the United States and Canada.

If you require financing…

Several options are available for financing; see our steel building financing page for more details.

The base building package will cover most people's needs, but a wide range of options allows you to get the look you want to meet YOUR specific requirements. Detailed below are some of the more popular customization options:

Choose a Roof Style

Most shop buyers chose a gable roof profile. Pitches are usually between 1:12 and 4:12. Steeper pitches are available but require special engineering. The simple lines of a shed (single slope) roof are also popular for many auto shops, these have a pitch of either 1:12 or 2:12.

For more, see our metal roofs page.

Pick Custom Options

Color: Complement your existing structures or match your company brand or personal style. There are over twenty standard colors to choose from for your siding, roofing, trim, and wainscot.

Doors: Choose from sectional or roll-up overhead doors. Pick sizes and styles that work for your access requirements.

Siding: Metal shops come standard with 26-gauge PBR metal siding. You can replace this with other materials, including Hardie board, stucco, or faux stone.

Structural: Add a lean-to for additional covered outdoor storage space or a mezzanine for second-level storage. Add roof overhangs or covered porches.

TIP - consider placing windows 7’ off the floor; this way, you will maximize wall space and prevent prying eyes.

For more, see our page on customizing a metal building.

When you are happy with your shop's size, style, layout, and design, the next step is to get quotes. This is where we can assist with your project. Provide some details about your requirements in our quote request form. We will then match you with the FOUR most suitable, vetted suppliers, who will provide competing quotes for your metal shop building kit.

When you choose a supplier for your workshop building, there are a few critical steps to take. First, you will place a deposit with the supplier (typically 20-30%). This deposit will secure your spot with the factory and allow them to begin engineering your custom building. Next, you will sign a contract with the supplier.

Once the contract is signed, the factory can begin the engineering and fabrication process. Finally, you will receive a set of building and foundation plans (typically 2-3 weeks later). These plans will be stamped by an engineer licensed for your state. Some suppliers charge extra for foundation plans, so be sure to ask before you finalize your purchase.

Armed with engineering plans, you can get quotes from local subcontractors or a general contractor to erect your structure. You will also be able to approach your local building department, begin the permit process,  and talk to lenders if you require financing.

Site Preparation

Before you can break ground, careful site preparation is critical. Many factors need to be considered, including setbacks and easements, existing utilities and access routes, and the ability of the ground to support the building. In addition, proper compacting and grading are essential for ensuring a stable foundation. Finally, don't forget to pull permits and run services to the job site before you start construction. Read more about construction site preparation.

Pour the Foundation

Your new shop will require a slab-on-grade foundation. The foundation is your responsibility also; note that the foundation and anchor bolts are not included as part of the package. The foundation will cost anywhere from $4 to $8 per square foot.

In order to obtain the proper permits and to ensure that your building is code-compliant, you will need to hire a local, licensed structural engineer to design the foundation plan.

Unless you have substantial foundation installation knowledge, we strongly recommend that you have the foundation poured by a professional crew. A 4-inch slab will work for most small shops; however, if you plan to use the space to store heavy equipment or install a car lift, you will need a 6-inch foundation.

You may also want to consider installing in-floor heating before the foundation is poured. Additionally, you will need to install drains for wastewater (typically a trench drain or square bell trap).

NOTE. We strongly recommend that a professional concrete company install the foundation if you don't have prior experience.

For more, here's our guide to metal building foundations.

Delivery

Your building will be delivered somewhere between 1 and 4 months after ordering. You’ll need lifting equipment at the site to offload the framing and sheeting components and a place to store everything safely and out of the elements. The final balance of payment will generally be due on delivery. Read our guide to what to expect and how to prep for delivery.

Construction Options

Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Build: All buildings from our suppliers have detailed metal shop plans and instructions. Construction is easier than you might think. For smaller-sized metal shop buildings (up to 3,000 sq ft), approximately 30% of buyers choose DIY. You will take care of permitting, pouring the foundation, erecting the structure, installing wiring, plumbing, insulation, and all interior finishing. This option can save you 20-30% on the total build cost.

Self Build: You act as the project's general contractor (GC). You hire and manage the various subcontractors needed for the foundation, building erection, finishing, etc. This option will save you the GC fees (10-20% of the project cost).

General Contractor (GC) Build: You enlist a GC to hire and manage all subcontractors. This route is the most costly option and best suited for those without construction experience or if you require a short build time. GCs typically charge 10-20% of the project cost, but their knowledge and ideas can significantly benefit the project. Their experience may also equate to a faster permit approval process, as many GCs have long-standing relationships with local building departments and inspectors.

For additional detail, see our guide to metal building construction.

Shop Insulation Options

Good quality insulation is a must in most locations for improved energy efficiency and comfort while working inside. In addition, the investment will yield worthwhile energy cost savings over the long term. Most owners choose either spray foam insulation or fiberglass blanket. Insulation also helps prevent condensation and reduce noise levels.

For more details, read our guide to metal building foundations.

Interior Framing

Many steel buildings are a single space, open from wall to wall. Interior framing can easily be added for an office, bathroom, dedicated storage area, a second floor, or mezzanine loft space.

Wiring, Plumbing, and Flooring

To finish the interior, i.e., framing, wiring, lighting, heating, plumbing, insulation, and flooring - you will engage the appropriate local subcontractors.

Walkthrough and Final Inspection

Your permit will not be considered complete until you have passed all necessary inspections. To avoid problems, it is advisable to have inspections performed throughout the construction process. Once you have passed the final inspection, the inspector will provide you with a certificate of occupancy.

For further details, see our page on finishing a metal building interior.